Christian rockers present their potential

By Nate Seltenrich

Nifty Tom Fifty: "Changing Time and Space"

The six members of Nifty Tom Fifty may not be changing time and space, but they're surely changing the way I think about Christian rock.

It's hard to find a band in this genre that's as focused on music as it is on praise and positive thinking. In accordance with the group's almost-too-cheesy-yet-still-enjoyable tune "Never Stop Rockin'," Nifty Tom Fifty certainly does have the ability to rock.

Not only can these guys rock, but they do it every which way - from the pop-punk "Forgive" to the alternative "Never Meant to Be" to the acoustic "Forgive" reprise at the end of the album, Nifty Tom Fifty experiments more or less effectively with a number of styles throughout "Changing Time and Space."

The glue that ties it all together is a commitment to music in and of itself that is undeniably rare in their genre. This is a band's band and not simply an instrument of ministry.

While it does make for a good review on paper, Nifty Tom Fifty's genre-crossing style should also be instrumental to any future success and real-world growth beyond regional Christian rock band status.

Although the 9-track "Changing Time and Space" was produced independently, it has a very professional, well-polished and fresh sound that puts a good face forward for the young band. In particular, the effect-processed guitar riffs that flutter from song to song and occasional solos contribute a lively and memorable element that does wonders for the album's overall feel.

This release is less of a focused and cohesive work and more of a preliminary showcase of what Nifty Tom Fifty can do. And what they can do should certainly be taken note of, as there's something to be said for a group that is equally at home in elite rock clubs and small town churches.

For more information about the band, go to www.niftytom50.com. B